Roving reporter offers up tips for the big event
Over the span of 10 days, the Calgary Stampede’s roving reporter Cayla Spiess and her team will produce more than 40 stories, documenting all-things Stampede.
Spiess — along with Andrew Stachiw and Mitch Nybo — has been at this for six years and says she’s only missed one Stampede in her life. She shares some tips for how to make the most of your experience.
TAKE TIME TO PLAN
The roving reporter says there’s so much variety at the Stampede, ranging from the Dog Bowl shows to a new across-the-park zipline, that it could be overwhelming.
“Take a second and look at all the different events to plan,” said Spiess. “I still learn so much like there’s so much to do.”
Bottom line: check out the various events beforehand and plan, plan, plan!
DRESS FOR THE WEATHER AND BREAK IN THOSE COWBOY BOOTS
Spiess and her roving crew walk up to 15 kilometres each day, so dressing comfortably is a must. Also layering is critical — you never know when a storm will hit that could leave you shivering and ankle-deep in water.
And if you’re new to cowboy boots, make sure you take some time to break them in. “Put on your thick wool socks for a good two days before you wear your cowboy boots down here,” she said.
DON’T FORGET ABOUT WEADICKVILLE
Named after Guy Weadick, the founder of the Calgary Stampede, Spiess describes this as a beautiful area that visitors often miss. It has picnic benches, big trees for shade and delicious gourmet mini doughnuts. The Coca-Cola Stage is nearby, too, so you can hear bands play without having to conquer the crowds.
You can also find a vintage RCMP post from the 1800s, which Spiess says is one of her favourite monuments to visit each year.
EAT IN PAIRS
In her first year as a roving reporter, Spiess recalls eating so much food that, “I felt like I was going to have a heart attack.” But this shouldn’t stop you from trying as many different foods as you can.
“Pace yourself and go with a buddy,” she said. “And share — that’s what we do now.”
DON’T MISS THE SIDESADDLE RACING
Debuting this year, sidesaddle racing features women racing while balancing on a sidesaddle to accommodate long skirts. This event is one Spiess is especially looking forward to.
“A lot of people think Stampede traditional attire involves cowboy hats, but, actually, at Fort Calgary women were wearing long dresses and pretty hats,” she said. “The sidesaddle racing will be incredible as entertainment, but also as a sport and to bring in the tradition.”
This event will take place after the chuckwagon races on the first weekend.
GO IN WITH AN OPEN MIND TO EXPLORE
From art, to delicious food, to rides and discovering cowboy culture, there’s something for everyone.
Spiess says her No. 1 piece of advice is to enter the gates with an open mind and willingness to explore.
“You meet so many people when you’re here, it’s really a community and great to connect with people.”